Policy Press

Squaring the Circle on Brexit

Could the Norway Model Work?

By John Erik Fossum and Hans Petter Graver

Published

May 16, 2018

Page count

128 pages

ISBN

978-1529200300

Dimensions

198 x 129 mm

Imprint

Bristol University Press

Published

May 16, 2018

Page count

128 pages

ISBN

978-1529200324

Dimensions

Imprint

Bristol University Press

Published

May 16, 2018

Page count

128 pages

ISBN

978-1529200331

Dimensions

Imprint

Bristol University Press
Squaring the Circle on Brexit

This important book provides the first systematic assessment of the so-called Norway Model, suggested as an off-the-shelf option for the UK to ‘square the circle’ after Brexit.

Two preeminent Norwegian scholars of politics and law offer a comprehensive first-hand account of Norway’s relationship with the EU and how this affects the country’s legal and political system, setting out what Britain can learn from Norway’s experience and how transferable these lessons are.

Their analysis also explores what impact the UK’s presence is likely to have on existing members of the European Economic Area (EEA) discussing both the opportunities and the challenges. The book will be a valuable resource for anyone interested in the future of the UK’s relationship with Europe.

"With great uncertainty still about the UK’s future relationship with the EU, this is an excellent and timely contribution to the debate." Michael Keating

Professor of Politics, University of Aberdeen, and Director, Centre on Constitutional Change

"For the UK, the Norway option for Brexit remains a live issue, and one about which there remains a lack of information. Few authors are as well qualified as Fossum and Graver to provide that information in what will undoubtedly be a ‘must read’ book." Jo Shaw, Salvesen Chair of European Institutions, School of Law, University of Edinburgh

“As the UK negotiates Brexit the so-called Norway Model can teach us a great deal about how to forge a productive relationship with Europe and reunite our divided country. The authors’ expertise and first-hand experience make this book essential reading.” Stephen Kinnock MP for Aberavon and Member of the Exiting the European Union Select Committee

“The first detailed assessment of the Norway model and how it might work for Britain. This timely book should inform the entire Brexit debate.” John Peet, The Economist

"This book is a must-read for those keen on finding a solution to the UK's desire to be close to, but not part of, the European Union. The Norway model may provide the only answer." Tom Brake, MP for Carshalton and Wallington

John Erik Fossum is Professor at the ARENA Centre for European Studies, University of Oslo, Norway. Professor Fossum has authored or co-edited 14 books, several journal special issues, and numerous articles and book chapters.

Hans-Petter Graver is Professor of Law at the University of Oslo, Norway, and former Vice President of The Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters. Professor Graver has written more than 10 monographs and more than 100 articles in peer-reviewed journals and edited volumes.

Introduction

What does Britain want from Brexit?

Forms of affiliation with non-members

What is the Norway Model?

The challenge of sovereignty

What can Britain learn from Norway’s experience?

Would Britain be an ‘elephant in the boat’?

Conclusion